Page 119 - Pharmd general phytochemistry I-Final2024_LEUCTERS

Chemical Composition:
 Celluloses are anhydrides of β-glucose, possibly existing as long chains that are

not branched, consisting of 100 to 200 β -glucose residues.
 The β- Linkage in cellulose is hydrolyzed only by the enzyme Emulsin (present in

certain microorganisms).
Cellulose: β-1, 4 linked polyglucosan

Uses:
1- Powdered cellulose is used as self-binding, tablet diluent and disintegrating
agent.
2- Methyl cellulose is used as bulk laxative and suspending agent.
3- Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) is used in ophthalmic solution as topical
protectants or artificial tears for contact lenses.

Inulin

Occurrence:
 Inulin is the reserve polysaccharides in the subterranean organs of members of

the family compositae. e.g Inula elecampane
Chemical Composition:
 It is a D-fructofuranose polymer whose residues are linked in a linear fashion by

β-2,1 bonds.

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